Weierstrass Institute (WIAS), a MATH+ Partner, Successfully Evaluated
The Weierstrass Institute for Applied Analysis and Stochastics (WIAS) is a research institute within the Leibniz Association dedicated to application-oriented mathematical research that addresses complex challenges in science and industry. As a key partner in the Excellence Cluster MATH+, WIAS contributes significantly to advancing mathematical knowledge and innovation. Following a comprehensive evaluation process, the Senate of the Leibniz Association announced on March 18, 2025, its recommendation to continue funding WIAS for another seven years. This decision underscores the institute’s exceptional research contributions. Congratulations!
As part of the Leibniz Association, WIAS is jointly funded by the federal and state governments due to its supra-regional importance and national science policy interests. The institute undergoes regular evaluations based on assessments by an external group of experts. The latest evaluation recognized WIAS’s outstanding research achievements, securing its continued funding. A reassessment will take place in the standard seven-year cycle to ensure the institute continues to meet the necessary funding criteria.
Medical image processing: visualization of axons in the human brain | Figure: WIAS
WIAS plays a pivotal role in establishing Berlin’s reputation as a global center for mathematical research. Its research spans from mathematical modeling to the theoretical analysis of models and the numerical simulation of solutions. Application areas include quantum and optoelectronics, the optimization energy distribution, biomedicine, and the development of theoretical foundations for machine learning.
According to the Senate’s evaluation, WIAS consistently delivers internationally recognized research results. The institute collaborates closely with industry and research partners through joint projects and provides research software via both commercial licenses and open-source platforms. In addition, WIAS coordinates the mathematics consortium MaRDI within the framework of the National Research Data Infrastructure (NFD), offering essential support to the entire mathematical community.
Since the last evaluation, WIAS has demonstrated remarkable progress. In addition to playing a key role in the Berlin Mathematics Research Center MATH+, the institute now permanently hosts the secretariat of the International Mathematical Union (IMU), which is responsible, for example, for awarding the Fields Medal, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Mathematics.”
The Senate emphasized WIAS’ ongoing significant contribution to Berlin’s reputation as a scientific hub in mathematics. It also highlighted the importance of swiftly filling vacant leadership positions, which presents an opportunity to increase female representation among the institute’s scientists.
WIAS considers the outstanding assessment a strong endorsement of both its research quality and strategic development plans. With all research groups rated at least “good” to “very good”—and most achieving “very good” or “excellent”—the institute remains committed to maintaining its high standards. WIAS will continue to evolve, addressing identified challenges with focus and determination.
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